22 Jamaican Foods You Need To Try!

If you love Jamaican food like I do, you've definitely come to the right place! My collection of 22 easy and mouthwateringly delicious Jamaican recipes will transport you to the islands with the bold and irresistible flavors of this amazing cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious food lover, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the essence of Jamaica. Vegan, Dairy-free + Gluten-free options.

Jamaican Food Roundup

Welcome to a world of sizzling spices and vibrant flavors--Jamaican food is a treasure trove of unique, wondrous, and fiery tastes that will leave you craving for more. Just imagine sinking your teeth into the succulent goodness of Jerk Chicken or indulging in the sweet pleasures of Pineapple Upside-Down Cake.

In my handpicked collection of 22 Jamaican Foods You Need To Try! I'm bringing these incredible flavors like homemade jerk seasoning right to your kitchen. And what's a Jamaican feast without a few traditional drink sips to go with it all? Plus I've sprinkled in some unique twists that take these beloved classics to new heights of flavor. Before you dive into cooking, make sure to check out my list of the top 10 must-have ingredients for crafting genuine Jamaican dishes.

Jump to:

• Jamaican Food Roundup
• 22 Jamaican Foods You Need To Try!
• Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
• Spicy Jamaican Beef Patties
• Vegan Jamaican Stew Peas
• Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings
• Vegan Jamaican Jerk Walnut Tacos
• Creamy Jamaican Rasta Pasta
• Best Jamaican Jerk Chicken Pizza
• Vegan Jamaican Power Bowl
• Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad
• Weeknight Jamaican Curry Chicken + Gnocchi
• Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup
• Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp 
• Jerk Salmon Tacos + Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce
• Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken 
• Jamaican Sweet Delights + Sips
• Creamy Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge
• Jamaican Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Jamaican Inspired Rum Raisin Bread
• Jamaican Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
• Jamaican Vegan Peanut Punch
• Jamaican Rum Punch Mocktail
• Traditional Vegan Jamaican Carrot Juice
• Jamaican Rum Cream
• Jamaican Cooking Tips!
• Jamaican Foods You Have To Try Roundup!
• Love Jamaican Recipes?
• MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

22 Jamaican Foods You Need To Try!

Picture this:

A tantalizing array of delicious Jamaican foods packed with spices--Complete with a few healthy twists alongside the classics.

Let's kick things off with some savory goodness!

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Let's get started with a tried and true classic! Transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Jamaica with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken dish! Packed with spicy and tender flavors- It's sure to be a crowd-pleaser and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner! A real nostalgic comfort food dish for many Jamaicans. Completely Dairy-free + Gluten-free option. 

Spicy Jamaican Beef Patties

These Spicy Jamaican Beef Patties come wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust, tender + moist beef filling coupled with the many authentic Jamaican spices-----creating a complete burst in flavor and real heat! A true family favorite that is easy to make! Vegan? Try my Vegan Jamaican Beef Patties instead!

Vegan Jamaican Stew Peas

Vegan Jamaican Stew Peas --- A recipe that pays great homage to the traditional, well-known Jamaican dish---Stew Peas. This bowl of goodness is completely creamy and savory. A kick of heat for those who enjoy a bit of spiciness---thanks to traditional scotch bonnet peppers and is best served with white rice or alone as a soup/stew. Entirely Vegan + Gluten-free.

Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings

If you haven't indulged in traditional Jamaican jerk, then you're truly missing out and this Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. These wings are seasoned to perfection and boast of a nicely juicy center. The perfect appetizer or main meat that can be served with your favorite sides---whether during lunch, dinner or a savory snack. Dairy-free option.

Vegan Jamaican Jerk Walnut Tacos

If you love the flavors of Jamaican Jerk, then you'll surely love this delicious Vegan Jamaican Jerk Walnut Tacos recipe, made with a flavorful walnut 'meat' mixture, homemade jerk seasoning, roasted veggies, pineapple chunks, and an easy lime sauce. These little tacos have so much flavor and are a great meatless alternative for lunch or dinner. It's the ultimate vegan taco recipe! Gluten-free option.

Creamy Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Make a simple and comforting one-pot Creamy Jamaican Rasta Pasta for a weeknight dinner that comes enriched with spicy jerk flavors, bell peppers, and a thick, cheesy sauce----much like the traditional version. Dairy-free, Vegan, and Gluten-free options.

Best Jamaican Jerk Chicken Pizza

This Best Jamaican Jerk Chicken Pizza is one of the best versions of pizza where taking a traditional staple like jerk chicken and using it to re-create something phenomenal for the entire family. Perfect for any lunch or dinner, especially during weeknights. Gluten-Free option.

Vegan Jamaican Power Bowl

This Vegan Jamaican Power Bowl is the next best thing for the colder season! Absolutely comforting, easy to make, and the perfect dairy-free + meatless weeknight meal option that comes full of nutrients. To add more flavor----there's a homemade garlic dressing—–all that you can’t go wrong with for dinner.

Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad

Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad -- It's just the thing that you need for any season! It's a bright and refreshing vegetable salad for the whole family! Entirely dairy-free + gluten-free. Make ahead option.

Weeknight Jamaican Curry Chicken + Gnocchi

If you have ever had curry in general, you know it’s all about flavor + spice! Embrace the heat with my Weeknight Jamaican Curry Chicken + Gnocchi recipe which is guaranteed to make the entire family satisfied. With a fragrant blend of spices and tender shredded chicken and gnocchi. This dish is sure to be your newest family staple. Completely Dairy-free. Meatless + Gluten-free options. 

Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup

This Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup recipe is sure to be the next best soup you'll ever make and you're guaranteed to be satisfied while highly nourished with the nutrients included in every bite. A great weeknight option or weekend addition--this soup boasts of it’s major flavor factor and comes loaded with chicken, carrots, onions, garlic, potatoes, corn, dumplings, seasonings + herbs, and chicken broth. Slow Cooker + Gluten-Free options.

Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp 

This Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp is a great homemade option to an amazing finger-licking traditional Jamaican delicacy. Made in just 30 minutes, this shrimp is smothered in a spicy scotch bonnet seasoning + base, with hints of butteriness, and is perfect when eaten by itself or with your favorite simple side. 

Jerk Salmon Tacos + Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce

These Jerk Salmon Tacos + Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce are the absolute perfect tacos! Packed with bold, spicy, + savory Jamaican flavors–this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser and is finger-licking goodness on a plate. These tacos are a great reminder that tacos can be thoroughly enjoyed during any season! Gluten-free + Make ahead options.

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken 

As we round off our journey through savory dishes, let's end with a culinary classic! Get ready to whip up the very best Authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken, brimming with the true flavors of the Caribbean and the essence of the islands. I'm sure it's going to earn a special place as a favorite family dinner during the week. Gluten-free!

Jamaican Sweet Delights + Sips

To put the finishing touch on this Jamaican food lineup, how could I ever forget about the mouthwatering sweet treats? And, of course, we can't leave out a selection of traditional sips to enjoy alongside all the deliciousness!

Creamy Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge

The best way to start your day---This Creamy Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge is a rendition on the delicious traditional Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge which includes boldly sweet flavors and a beautiful smooth, creamy, and velvety texture. Vegan option available.

Jamaican Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Experience the irresistible flavors of the Caribbean with this Jamaican Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe! This mouthwatering fruity dessert features a moist and spiced cake base adorned with a crown of caramelized pineapple chunks and toasted pecans. A dreamy fusion of tropical goodness in every bite. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a solo indulgence, this cake is a true taste of paradise. Nut-free option.

Jamaican Inspired Rum Raisin Bread

This Homemade Jamaican Inspired Rum Raisin Bread is fluffy and soft with deep flavors of cinnamon, naturally sweetened, and 100% vegan! It takes less than 10 minutes to make and offers a healthy and nutritious breakfast option with just the right amount of sweetness. 

Jamaican Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal

This Jamaican-inspired Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is the ultimate healthy + hearty breakfast recipe, regardless of the season. It comes drenched in island-y flavors from the lime, coconut, banana, and optional rum extract; topped with warm banana slices, coconut flakes, and toasted pecans. Fully vegan and gluten-free.

Jamaican Vegan Peanut Punch

This delicious Jamaican Vegan Peanut Punch recipe is a healthier take on the delicious traditional Jamaican Peanut Punch, which includes bold flavors of Peanuts and Rum (optional) and is beautifully textured to create a smooth drinking experience. This Vegan version boasts it’s creaminess, velvetiness, nuttiness, and generous play on  warming spices and a hint of oats. The perfect drink to enjoy during family lunch or dinner or a great way to kick start your morning. Blender-free option!

Jamaican Rum Punch Mocktail

Jamaican Rum Punch Mocktail-- Boasting of height notes of citrus, tropical, and spices, this mocktail is a must have drink for the warmer days ahead. Super easy to make, all organic ingredients, and can be spruced up with actual rum for any special occasion. 

Traditional Vegan Jamaican Carrot Juice

This creamy Traditional Vegan Jamaican Carrot Juice has the perfect amount of sweetness and warmness from delicious spices.

Jamaican Rum Cream

This Jamaican Rum Cream (Alcohol-Free) is the ideal sip for any occasion. This version is made with an alcohol-free option, sweet, creamy ingredients, coconut notes, and chocolate syrup, and topped with your choice of shaved chocolate or extra chocolate syrup. What could be better? Dairy-free option available.

Jamaican Cooking Tips!

Here are some handy tips and tricks I've picked up during my time cooking Jamaican food that will make your culinary journey a lot smoother--

Invest in good jerk seasoning: Jerk seasoning is a quintessential part of Jamaican cuisine. You can buy a store-bought one OR make your own homemade jerk seasoning, it's simple, easy and the best part is how fully customizable it is!

Marinate for authentic flavor: When cooking jerk dishes like chicken or pork, marinate your meat in jerk seasoning for at least a few hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and gives you that characteristic spicy-sweet taste.

Use scotch bonnet peppers wisely: Scotch Bonnet peppers are hot! Be cautious when handling them; wearing gloves can prevent accidental burns. Adjust the amount you use according to your spice tolerance, or even consider removing the seeds for milder heat.

Slow + low for the best results: When cooking dishes like stew or curry, low and slow is the way to go. These dishes benefit from long, gentle simmering, which helps tenderize tough cuts of meat and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Love Using Jamaican Herbs + Spices?

If you're anything like me and love exploring natural remedies, you're in for a treat. Check out my list of Jamaican herbs you should always keep on hand, along with some amazing remedies! Growing up in a Jamaican household, I got to know a bunch of fantastic Jamaican spices. These spices aren't just for making tasty dishes; they also have some incredible healing properties!

Jamaican Foods You Have To Try Roundup!

I hope y'all had a blast checking out my lineup of Jamaican Foods You Have To Try! Jamaican cuisine is all about the good vibes and bold flavors, and I wanted to share a taste of that with you.

Whether you're digging into a jerk chicken salad, or tucking into a hearty stew, there's something special about the mix of flavors and the warmth of Jamaican culture that makes these dishes unforgettable. Plus, adding a healthy spin to them means you can enjoy them guilt-free.

Love Jamaican Recipes?

If you've enjoyed these Jamaican food recipes, don't miss out on trying these next.

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried any of the 22 Jamaican Foods You Need To Try! or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below or tag me on Instagram @Orchidsnsweettea_. I love hearing from you.

Love this Post? SHARE!